Abstract
Lutein is a dietary carotenoid preferentially accumulated in the eye and the brain in early life and throughout the life span. Lutein accumulation in areas of high metabolism and oxidative stress such as the eye and the brain suggest a unique role of this ingredient during the development and maturation of these organs of common embryological origin. Lutein is naturally provided to the developing baby via the cord blood, breast milk and then infant diet. The presence of this carotenoid depends on fruit and vegetable intakes and its bioavailability is higher in breastmilk. This paper aims to review the anatomical development of the eye and the brain, explore the presence and selective deposition of lutein in these organs during pregnancy and infancy and, based on its functional characteristics, present the latest available research on the beneficial role of lutein in the pediatric population. The potential effects of lutein in ameliorating conditions associated with increase oxidative stress such as in prematurity will be also addressed. Since consumption of lutein rich foods falls short of government guidelines and in most region of the world infant formulas lack this bioactive, dietary recommendations for pregnant and breastfeeding women and their child can help to bridge the gap.
Highlights
IntroductionNutrition during pregnancy is important for maternal health, pregnancy outcomes, fetus development child health, and potentially later in life [1]
Nutrition during pregnancy is important for maternal health, pregnancy outcomes, fetus development child health, and potentially later in life [1].Perinatal development and infancy are life stages characterized by multiorgan development
Lutein and zeaxanthin are unable to be synthesized in humans, so blood and tissue levels rely solely on dietary intake
Summary
Nutrition during pregnancy is important for maternal health, pregnancy outcomes, fetus development child health, and potentially later in life [1]. Perinatal development and infancy are life stages characterized by multiorgan development. Poor maternal/fetal/neonatal nutrition can influence developmental “programming” and organ growth resulting in short-term and longer-term effects linked to the increased risk of noncommunicable diseases [2]. The WHO recommends nutrition education and counselling during pregnancy about healthy diet which contains macronutrients, vitamins and minerals, obtained through the consumption of a variety of foods, including green and orange vegetables, meat, fish, beans, nuts, pasteurized dairy products and fruits [3]. Development, infancy, and early childhood are a particular critical window for eye and brain development. Preterm birth contributes to neonatal morbidity, physical and neurodevelopmental disabilities
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